happy things – The Larissa Monologues

family, happy things, marriage, parenthood, reflections

Our New Podcast

April 2, 2021May 6, 2021by LarissaLeave a Comment

Steve and I recently launched a podcast!

We invite you to join us as we talk about mundane everyday stuff (our love for Taco Bell and weird words our kids invented), as well as important things (dealing with emotional health during the pandemic and raising a multiethnic family). This podcast is sorta for us because it’s been fun to do together, but it’s also for anyone out there who may find it adds something good to their lives.

Our first recording session. This is real life – messy house, socks on microphones, and hoping our kids don’t make any noise.

The podcast is our way to connect, share our experiences, and have honest conversations with lots of laughter. Grab a drink and come hang out with us!

To listen to the podcast go to: https://linktr.ee/steveandlarissapodcast

Or subscribe on your favorite podcast app like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

celebration, family, happy things, parenthood

Happy 5th Birthday, Alexandra

August 7, 2017August 7, 2017by Larissa3 Comments

I write letters to my children on their birthdays. Here is last year’s letter to Alex.

Dear Alex,

Five years ago we were surprised by your arrival. Born three weeks ahead of your due date, you were a tiny little thing.

And now you’re five years old. Full time preschooler and warrior girl. You are a wonder. You jump into life with such energy and exuberance. I love how you challenge me to enjoy life more freely.

This year was full of new things for you – a home in a new city, a new preschool that you love, getting a puppy, getting better at swimming and reading, learning hula. You also ate a live cricket, which your dad (NOT ME) fed to you.

You love making art and doing your morning pages. You enjoy helping with house chores, listening to stories, playing with friends, and making people laugh. Your personality is full of strength and zeal. I love seeing you grow and explore.

Happy birthday, Alex! Here’s to a wonderful year, my beloved daughter.

Love, Mom

family, happy things, parenthood

Happy 2nd Birthday, Aria

March 10, 2017by Larissa1 Comment

I write letters to my children on their birthdays. Here is last year’s letter to Aria.

Happy birthday, Aria!

Can you really be two already? Apparently so. You add such a wonderful dose of light into the world, it’s hard for me to remember what life pre-you was like.

You have a beautiful spirit that is curious, funny, thoughtful, and sweet. When you meet someone new, your first instinct is to befriend and charm. You have a wonderful imagination, playing pretend and making up your own language. When you get excited, you squeal with delight.

We have learned to always keep an eye on you because you get into everything. Once you opened the fridge, and dumped a whole container of bread dough all over yourself. Last week you figured out how to climb out of your crib. You certainly keep us on our toes.

You love listening to the “Mo-a-a” (Moana) soundtrack, playing with water, using the remote control to talk on the phone with your grandparents, singing the alphabet song, eating edamame, drawing on things you’re not supposed to, telling us that you want to “guh-buh” (buckle) yourself into your car seat, asking to be picked “uh-poo” (up), and giving really great hugs and kisses.

I love seeing your identity take shape, and hope this year brings so much joy for you.To watch you grow and learn and live is one of the greatest gifts I’ve been given. You are deeply loved.

With all my heart,

Mommy